Newport News limits short-term rental occupancy to two guests per bedroom, with a citywide cap of six guests per property. Rentals must be the host's primary residence (occupied at least 185 days per year), and a zoning permit is required before listing.
Newport News Code Chapter 33.02 and Zoning Ordinance §45-517.1 govern short-term rentals (STRs). Maximum occupancy is two guests per bedroom with an overall cap of six guests; no commercial events such as weddings or fundraisers are permitted. The property must be the operator's primary residence for at least 185 days annually. Hosts must obtain an STR zoning permit through the Zoning Division, maintain a guest log, obtain a business license, and remit the transient occupancy tax. Required safety equipment includes smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, a fire extinguisher, and a per-room emergency exit plan. Enforcement began August 1, 2025 after a multi-year grace period.
Unpermitted operation or occupancy-limit violations are zoning infractions; owners receive a 30-day cure notice. Continued non-compliance constitutes a Class 1 misdemeanor subject to fines up to $2,500 and/or up to 12 months imprisonment.
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See how Newport News's occupancy limits rules stack up against other locations.
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